That KendamaUSA video posted on the YYE blog totally blew my mind. I have been researching kendama now for a few days and decided to order my first! It seems like a fun skill based hobby to dabble in when Im bored with my yoyos.
I ordered a custom Sweets setup:
SeaFoam Chameleon Tama.
Golden Oak Stained Ken.
Green String.
Here is a Photoshop render I put together of what its gonna look like.
Though since I’ve only used a Kendama for like 10 minutes in my entire life, I decided to not drop as many bones as you did. Picked up a $21 Tribute from Kendama USA. So excited
An OG Mugen Kendama MIB is worth roughly $400
A company called Terra Kendamas makes exotic hardwood masterpieces for around $300
Grip Kendamas range from $70 - $130 I believe.
No matter what your hobby is, there will always be expensive versions.